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How to Enter Prague Castle | A Detailed Guide
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Prague CastleEntrances
Prague Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers visitors a remarkable journey through centuries of history. It has several entrances for visitors, with each entry providing a unique experience and a different perspective of the castle.
Let's take a deep dive into the different entrances and discover which one suits your preferences and interests!
Where is Prague Castle?
- Address: Hradčany, 119 08 Prague 1, Czechia
Find on Map - Location: Located atop a hill in the Hradčany district of Prague, Prague Castle is an emblem of the city's rich heritage. Its commanding position offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city's red rooftops, the meandering Vltava River, and the distant horizon.
- Closest Landmark: Šternberský Palace (600 m)
Entrance Location and Getting There
I Courtyard or the Gate of Giants Entrance
This is the main entrance to the castle and a perfect choice for those seeking an entrance with a dramatic flair. As you approach this entrance, you'll be greeted by colossal statues of two giants guarding the gateway.
Who is it For? This entrance is convenient for visitors traveling via a tram to Pohořelec or those staying in the Lesser Town area.
How to Reach: Take tram No. 22 to Pohořelec and make your way down the hill, or alight at Malostranské náměstí and take the New Castle Stairs. Both routes will take you to Hradčany Square, with the I Courtyard entrance nearby.
Timings: The I Courtyard entrance follows the same opening and closing timings as Prague Castle (6 AM to 10 PM).
Average Wait Time: The wait time can vary depending on the visitor flow. It is advisable to arrive early to avoid long queues.
Accessibility: Yes
Ticket Options: All the Prague Castle entrances are accessible via any type of Prague Castle ticket.
II Courtyard Entrance
The II Courtyard entrance, located on the northern side of the castle, provides direct access to some of the main attractions within the castle complex, including St. Vitus Cathedral and the Old Royal Palace.
Who is it For? This entrance is suitable for visitors coming via tram to Pražský hrad station.
How to Reach: Hop on tram No. 22 and alight at Pražský hrad stop. From there, take a left turn, and within a leisurely 5-minute stroll, you'll find yourself in the 2nd Courtyard of Prague Castle.
Timings: The Prague Castle is open daily from 6 AM to 10 PM. The II Courtyard entrance follows the same timings.
Average Wait Time: The wait time at this entrance can vary depending on the visitor flow. It is recommended to arrive early to avoid long queues.
Accessibility: Yes
Ticket Options: All the Prague Castle entrances are accessible via any type of Prague Castle ticket.
Na Opyši Gate
This entrance provides the shortest route to Prague Castle from Malostranska station. Visitors can also take a leisurely stroll in the picturesque South Gardens of the castle.
Who is it For? This entrance is suitable for visitors coming via metro to Malostranská station and are comfortable climbing stairs.
How to Reach: Take metro line A (green) to the Malostranská station, and then follow tram No. 22. After approximately 100 meters, turn left onto the Old Castle Stairs and climb the steps to reach the gate.
Timings: The Na Opyši Gate entrance follows the same opening hours as Prague Castle (6 AM to 10 PM).
Average Wait Time: The wait time at this entrance can vary depending on the number of visitors. It is advisable to arrive early to avoid long queues.
Accessibility: Not suitable for individuals with mobility issues (involves climbing stairs).
Ticket Options: All the Prague Castle entrances are accessible via any type of Prague Castle ticket.
Royal Summer Palace Entrance
This entrance provides access to Prague Castle through the beautiful Royal Garden. Marvel at the Royal Summer Palace as you walk through the picturesque surroundings.
Who is it For? This entrance is only open during the summer season and is suitable for those coming via tram to Královský letohrádek stop.
How to Reach: Take tram No. 22 and alight at the Královský letohrádek stop. Enter the garden and walk for 15-20 minutes to reach Prague Castle Riding School, which serves as an entrance during the summer season.
Timings: The Royal Summer Palace entrance is only open during summer. The opening and closing hours may vary, so it is recommended to check the official Prague Castle website for updated information.
Average Wait Time: The wait time at this entrance can vary depending on the number of visitors. It is advisable to arrive early to avoid long queues.
Accessibility: Yes.
Ticket Options: All the Prague Castle entrances are accessible via any type of Prague Castle ticket.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Prague Castle Entrances
How many Prague Castle entrances are there?
There are four entrances at Prague Castle: I Courtyard, II Courtyard, Na Opyši Gate, and Royal Summer Palace Entrance.
Which Prague Castle entrance do I use if I have already purchased Prague Castle tickets?
If you have already purchased Prague Castle tickets, you can use any one of the four entrances.
What is the average wait time at the Prague Castle entrance?
The wait time at the Prague Castle entrance can vary depending on the visitor flow, season, and time of day.
Which Prague Castle entrance do skip-the-line ticket holders use?
Skip the line ticket holders can use the I Courtyard entrance, which allows them to bypass the regular ticket queue and enter the castle directly.
Which Prague Castle entrance is used for guided tours?
The II Courtyard entrance is well-suited for visitors who prefer to explore the castle with a knowledgeable guide.
Which Prague Castle entrance do visitors with disabilities use?
Visitors with disabilities should use the I Courtyard or II Courtyard entrances.
Which Prague Castle entrance do I use if I don't have tickets?
If you don't have tickets, you can purchase them at any of the entrances.
How can I avoid waiting in line for a long time at Prague Castle?
To avoid long wait times, you can purchase skip-the-line tickets in advance or visit the castle during less busy hours, such as early morning or late afternoon.
